Skip Header

How mutual funds work

Important information - the value of investments can go down as well as up so you may get back less than you invest. This information is not a personal recommendation for any particular investment. If you are unsure about the suitability of an investment you should speak to one of Fidelity’s advisers or an authorised financial adviser of your choice.

What is a fund?

Funds allow investors to pool their money together, which a fund manager will then invest on their behalf. The manager is responsible for choosing investments for the fund and tries to grow investors’ money by spreading it over a range of company shares, bonds etc., although the growth isn't guaranteed.

Unit trusts, offshore funds and open-ended investment companies (OEICs) can all be referred to generically as funds.

None

Why invest in a fund?

More investment opportunities

Pool your money with other investors to take advantage of investment opportunities more easily than if you bought the individual assets yourself.

Managed by experts

Active fund managers use their knowledge, experience and research to help your money grow and provide you with an income, if required.

Spreading the risk

Invested across a number of different companies, you’re not relying too heavily on the fortunes of any one company.

Risks of investing in funds

However, there are a few things to consider, as well.

  • The value of funds can go down as well as up, so you may get back less than you invest
  • Funds are medium to long-term investments; so you need need to be prepared to invest for at least five years
  • Investing isn’t for everyone, and depends a lot on your personal circumstances and attitudes to risk

Fund types

Unit trusts, offshore funds and OEICs
Property funds
Exchange traded funds (ETFs)
Investment trusts

Fund management

Passively managed funds
Actively managed funds
Fund of funds (MultiManager)

Evaluating funds

It takes time, experience, knowledge and skill to work out which fund could be the one right for you. Here’s what you need to consider along with your personal circumstances (like how much risk you’re willing to take).

Show more Show less

Differences between funds and other investments

  • May offer diversification depending on what it invests in
  • Less risk than if you were to hold individual shares
  • No transaction costs with funds on our platform

Related articles

Can you get 5% interest on cash savings - and for how long?

What markets are telling us about the path for cash savings rates


Ed Monk

Ed Monk

Fidelity International

What funds did investors buy in September?

The most popular funds with our investors last month


Graham Smith

Graham Smith

Investment writer


Graham Smith

Graham Smith

Investment writer